How to password protect iWork and Word documents on your Mac

Keeping your system safe and sound is important if you work with any sensitive data or if you just have to share your system with your family (or nosy roommates) and you want to maintain your own personal privacy. Since you cannot always lock out the whole system, locking single document is a solid option, as it allows you to keep just some data secured.

iWork

1. Click on the document and open Inspector.
2. Click on the document tab if it is not already open.
3. Check the box labeled “Require Password to Open”.
4. Choose your password, enter it twice, put in a hint and click on the “Set Password” button.
5. Save your document.

Word for Mac

1. Open your documents.
2. Open Preferences from the menu bar.
3. Click on the “Security” tag.
4. Choose the Password to Open box and enter your password.
5. Confirm the password and click OK.
6. Save your document.